NATO troops in Ukraine difficult to envision

Germany, a key player in the international community, has been actively engaged in the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. Here's a summary of the latest developments and stances held by German political figures.

Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz has not ruled out the possibility of deploying German troops in Ukraine, but has expressed significant reservations about such a move. He clarified that there are no concrete plans for a military deployment at this time, and emphasised that any decision regarding the deployment of German troops would require the approval of the German Bundestag.

Meanwhile, the CSU leader, Markus Söder, has expressed opposition to deploying the German Armed Forces as part of security guarantees for Ukraine. Söder suggested discussing the possibility of sending combat-capable Ukrainian refugees back to Ukraine to ensure security there, a proposal that has been met with criticism from various quarters. The Green Party leader, Franziska Brantner, accused Söder of populism regarding Ukraine security, while Adis Ahmetović, the SPD foreign policy spokesman, agreed with Söder that a deployment of German ground troops is not to be considered at this point.

The arrival of Ukrainians in Germany following Russia's major attack on Ukraine in 2022 was unique, as they did not arrive as asylum seekers but under a special regulation. This regulation allowed them to work immediately and receive a citizen's allowance if needed. However, according to the plans of the black-red coalition, Ukrainians arriving in Germany after April 1, 2025, will no longer receive a citizen's allowance but lower benefits similar to those given to asylum seekers. Ahmetović criticised this approach, stating it leads to a lower employment rate compared to other European countries.

In a positive note, a coalition of 30 states, including European countries, Japan, Australia, Canada, the UK, and France, has been formed under the leadership of French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, to support the peace agreement initiative for Ukraine. This coalition is a testament to the international community's continued support for Ukraine's sovereignty and peace.

The Bundeswehr, Germany's armed forces, is currently stretched thin, and there have been discussions about the reintroduction of conscription. This decision would have significant implications for Germany's military capabilities and would need to be carefully considered.

Lastly, the Green Party chairwoman criticised Söder's frequent social media activities about sausage eating, suggesting a shift in focus from political matters to more personal topics.

These developments highlight the complex and evolving nature of Germany's stance on Ukraine, with a balance between security concerns, humanitarian aid, and political considerations.